Make a list of important things you want to share with the admissions team. The list can include accomplishments you are proud of, including internships, leadership roles, awards, publications and employment. Brainstorm about what makes you stand out as a person and as a student, especially if what you have done relates to your course of study in graduate school. For instance, if you are applying for entry into a creative writing program, you will want to mention your published works and writing awards. Note what you learned as an undergraduate and how you can apply this to your graduate career.
Research thoroughly the graduate program that you want to attend. Note its special courses, student groups, program awards and other unique elements. Find out which professors are teaching which subjects and if those professors are well-known in their respective fields. Note what sounds appealing to you and your studies.
Begin writing your application essay. Start the essay with a bright, catchy statement. According to the College Board, it is important to have a main focus that readers can latch onto, letting them know exactly what you want them know. For example, if you are applying to a science program, a good first sentence might be, "I will never forget the night Dad took me out in the yard to show me Mars. I have not stopped thinking about it since." College Board suggests that the opener be specific and detailed.
Write the rest of the essay while keeping the main point in mind. Expand on the introduction by stating your goals, ideas and motivations. Show the admissions team your passions and interests for the topic and provide specific details about why you feel this way. Instead of saying, "I have excelled in my science courses throughout college," let the admissions team know about one or two courses you took, why you loved them and why they made an impact on you. Mention why you believe their program would be a perfect fit for you as an individual. Let them know one or two program points of interest.
Edit the paper thoroughly to make sure there are no grammatical or spelling errors or awkward sentences. Read the essay aloud to see how it flows.